A Master of Djinn

Fatma and Aasim spend the next two days assembling an unarmed team with the aim of exposing and arresting the impostor. Fatma wants to interview Alexander Worthington, but pressure from politicians, as well as his alibi via his (albeit possibly forged) passport stamp, prevent it. Fatma lets it go, as he isn’t a suspect.

When the time comes, they travel to El-Arafa, a decaying necropolis left behind by the rapid urbanization following the djinn. Aasim considers the place dangerous, filled with thieves and criminals, and wishes for more than a wooden baton. Fatma reminds him that the people here are simply poor, reiterating the need for non-lethal weaponry—though she shivers recalling her encounter with the Maker in the district.

As a commotion begins in the distance, Hadia arrives, accusing Fatma of fabricating the rule that forbids recruits on dangerous missions. Irritated, Fatma lets her join as they lead a group of about 40 police through the cemetery city. Hundreds of people are listening to a “Bearer of Witness” recite the miracles he saw al-Jahiz perform, a performance accurate to historical accounts of al-Jahiz’s appearances. The impostor then takes the stage.

The impostor condemns the unfulfilling quality of modernity and calls for action: ”Together, we must set it right! Even if that means bringing down all they have built upon them so that we may start anew” (131).